Bikepacking et cyclotourisme – Which bike panniers to choose?

Video summary

1. Saddlebags for bikepacking

If you don’t want to use a luggage rack, you can use a saddle bag to carry more volume while gaining in lightness and maneuverability on the bike. Saddlebags attach directly to your bike’s saddle, providing extra storage space without affecting the bike’s handling too much. They’re ideal for long bike rides or multi-day trips, thanks to their increased storage capacity. THE bikepacker’s must-have pannier!

2. Panniers on rear carrier

Essential for touring cyclists, rear panniers are often favored for their storage capacity. A pair of rear panniers can carry bulky items such as clothing, kitchen equipment, a laptop or even the camping system. Beware, however, that excessive rear weight can affect the bike’s handling, as the rider’s weight is already on the bike’s rear wheel!

3. Front carrier bags and fork bags

The main advantage of front panniers is that they distribute the weight on the bike and take the load off the rear wheel. They attach either to a front-mounted rack or directly to the fork. Be sure to check your bike’s compatibility with these… Carbon forks, for example, are often unsuitable, as they are not designed to support this weight.

4. Handlebar bags

Handlebar-mounted bicycle panniers are a practical way of keeping your belongings close at hand while you’re on the move. They’re just as useful for travel as they are for everyday use. This is where you usually put your map, phone, camera, wallet, snacks, rain jacket and so on. Everything you need without setting foot on the ground. If you’ve got more room, this is also the place to put camping gear.

Please note that you need to check the pannier’s compatibility with the model, the size of your handlebars and the spacing between the handlebars and the wheel before buying. For my size S bike, for example, there are (very) few models that fit… In the end, I opted for the Restrap Bar Pack (10L).

Handlebar bags come in a wide variety of shapes, materials and fastening systems. So it all depends on your preferences and what you want to do with them. Of course, you won’t choose the same pannier if you only want to ride for a day, or for a whole week.

5. Bike frame bags

Frame panniers are a practical option for cyclists looking to maximize storage space while balancing weight on the bike. Placed in the center of the bike, they also offer easy access to gear during the ride.

Be sure to check the saddlebag’s width in relation to your bike, so that it doesn’t get in the way when you’re pedaling. Another point to bear in mind is that the size of your frame will be decisive in your choice of panniers… If you have a size S bike, for example, you’ll quickly realize that the choice of frame panniers is very limited, and that they don’t allow you to carry much… You’ll have to compensate with other panniers to get the same capacity! It’s a problem we women often encounter, so measure before you buy!

There are three types of frame bags:

• Standard frame panniers: attached either to the top tube or down tube of the bike. They are compact and ideal for carrying essentials such as a puncture kit or multifunctional tools. But beware of small bikes: even these quickly make bottle cages more difficult to access… Think of side-opening bottle cages for added convenience!
• Full frame panniers: these fill the space inside the frame and can hold a larger volume of gear, from 6 to 14 liters depending on the model. However, they prevent the use of bottle cages.
• Top tube panniers are also mounted on the frame, but this time on the upper part of the frame’s top tube. Even more accessible than the frame panniers, they provide an extra space for small items. They’re great for reaching snacks or your phone while pedaling.

6. Stem bags/food pouch

There are other small panniers that can come in handy, such as stem bags or food pouches , which can be attached to the stem (or something else, as I have no room on my stem!). See photo below, it’s attached to the frame) and can hold a small bottle of water, snacks or even a compact camera. Perfect for keeping things close at hand!

7. Bicycle trailers as an alternative?

Bicycle trailers can be an interesting alternative to panniers. They attach to the rear of the bike and can be used to transport objects, materials and even people or animals. This makes them lighter and more stable. Another advantage is their ease of installation: no need to modify the bike’s configuration with a luggage rack, for example. And when the trip’s over, simply detach the trailer. On the downside, the trailer can be uncomfortable to ride on paths instead of roads (it shakes!), or to go around posts if the path is narrow… You may also lose maneuverability. If you’re planning to take public transport, the trailer is immediately more cumbersome and problematic too. Finally, note that a trailer is generally more expensive than a luggage rack + panniers.

There are various types of trailer, including single-wheel and two-wheel trailers:

• Single-wheel trailers offer good manoeuvrability, especially when cornering, but are less suitable for heavy loads.
• Two-wheeled trailers are more stable and can carry heavier loads such as children or animals, but they can be harder to steer and less aerodynamic.

For bike travel, it’s best to opt for a monorow trailer. This type of trailer attaches either to the seat post or to the rear wheel axle. If you’re planning to travel over bumpy terrain, it may be worth choosing a trailer with suspension.